PHILADELPHIA, PA—Cole Hamels was on his way out the door in Philadelphia, but Wednesday morning, July 25, he was paid handsomely to remain a Philly.

Cole Hamels, P.

Hamels signed a 6-year extension worth $144 million, or $24 million per year.

As the trade deadline approached, there were thoughts that Hamels would be moved before his contract ran out at the end of this season. Over the last few days, however, the Phillies and Hamels began talking about a contract extension.

Two seasons ago, the Phillies became the first team to ever have two starting pitchers earn $20+ million per season with Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay. Now they are the only franchise to ever have three.